The Healer’s Daughter
Amber exhaled as she stepped out of the Alpha’s residence, her mind still reeling from their conversation. Alpha Damon’s last words echoed in her head.
"I want a woman as beautiful as you."She shook her head, pushing the thought away. This wasn’t about her. She had a job to do, and she needed to focus.
Just as she reached the courtyard, she collided with someone.
“Watch where you’re going!” a sharp voice snapped.
Amber staggered back, looking up—only to find herself face to face with Cecilia, the Healer’s first daughter.
Cecilia’s icy blue eyes narrowed as she took in Amber’s presence. Dressed in a flowing silver gown that hugged her curves, Cecilia carried herself with an air of superiority. She was known for being beautiful, poised… and utterly ruthless when it came to getting what she wanted.
“Well, well,” Cecilia drawled, folding her arms. “If it isn’t the matchmaker herself.”
Amber straightened. “Cecilia.”
“I heard something interesting.” Cecilia took a slow step forward. “The Alpha has requested your services.”
Amber smiled politely, not offering a reply. She wondered how the news had suddenly traveled around so fast. And she wished no one knew yet, it would definitely help with her job.
But now that Cecilia already knew, she was sure a lot are in the know and that would make the task more difficult for her.
Cecilia’s eyes gleamed with something dangerous. “Don’t play dumb. I know he asked for your help in finding him a mate. Did you accept to?”
Amber remained silent.
Cecilia’s lips curled in irritation. “Are you deaf, or did the cat get your tongue?”
Amber finally sighed. “Yes, it’s true. The Alpha has asked me to find him a mate.”
Cecilia’s expression flickered—just for a second—before she smoothed it over with a smirk. “Good,” she said sweetly. “Did you agree to find him a mate?”
Amber nodded.
Cecilia huffed. “Why would a strong Alpha like Damon stoop so low to employ your service for a mate? That doesn't speak well of him, you know?”
Amber was silent.
Cecilia wasn't done. “You know he and I have something, don't you?”
Amber was still silent.
Cecilia smirked and touched Amber’s shoulder like they were friends. “Let’s make this easy for you.”
Amber frowned and couldn't help but ask her. “What do you mean?”
Cecilia tossed her long dark hair over her shoulder. “What do you think of me as the Alpha’s mate?”
Amber didn’t respond immediately. She studied Cecilia, really studied her. She had always known Cecilia was ambitious, using the rumors of her affair with the Alpha to her advantage. No one ever confirmed whether it was true or not, but most of the pack assumed she would eventually become the Luna.
Amber took a slow breath before answering. “The Alpha was very clear about what he wants in a mate.”
Cecilia’s eyes gleamed with confidence. “And?”
“He wants someone kind,” Amber began.
Cecilia’s smirk twitched.
“Someone soft-spoken, gentle, powerful, and generous.” Amber took a step closer, lowering her voice slightly. “He wants a Luna who truly cares for the pack, not just someone who desires the title.”
Cecilia’s smile faded.
Amber held her gaze, unwavering. “You don’t have any of those qualities.”
The air grew thick with tension.
Cecilia’s nostrils flared. “Excuse me?”
Amber remained calm. “You heard me.”
For a moment, silence stretched between them. Then—
SMACK!
A sharp sting exploded across Amber’s cheek as Cecilia’s hand connected with her face.
Amber’s head snapped to the side, the taste of copper lingering on her tongue.
Cecilia’s voice dripped with venom. “You overstep, matchmaker.”
Amber slowly turned back, meeting Cecilia’s glare with steady eyes. She refused to cower.
“Next time, you will learn to show respect to those that deserve it. I am the Healer's daughter and any form of disrespect can guarantee you a grave punishment which I am sure you know.”
Amber wanted to speak, seeing that the guards were watching them. But Cecilia shut her up with a scowl.
“Don't you ever cross paths with me, henceforth or I will make your life a living hell, understood?” Cecilia brushed past Amber and Amber thought she was gone until she heard her voice again.
“The Alpha is mine.”